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Gili Trawangan

The three Gili Islands are Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air. Just off the coast of Lombok, these islands are dotted with small resorts, which are usually nothing more than a restaurant with a collection of huts around it – this is a place to come for peace and quiet. Cars aren't allowed on the islands so most people get around on bikes – or even horse drawn carriages, but while these islands started off as backpacker havens they've come to offer a bit more luxury – especially Gili Trawangan – as well as excellent conditions for divers and snorkellers.

Divers and snorkellers come for the large numbers of sea creatures – some of which are pretty exotic, parrot fish, manta rays and green and hawksbill turtles for example. It's possible to snorkel right off the beach in some places but the currents can be quite strong so get used to the idea of 'drifting'.